World Cup hopes prompt Pardew to 'protect' Sturridge

England could be the team to benefit most from the Liverpool striker's loan spell at West Brom, with a proven performer set to be fresher than most

Alan Pardew plans to "protect" Daniel Sturridge during his loan spell at West Brom, having targeted a spot in England's World Cup squad for the Liverpool striker.

Sturridge has struggled to nail down a regular spot at Anfield since Jurgen Klopp's arrival as manager in October 2015, having scored 21 times in 29 games as Brendan Rodgers' side went close to the title in 2013-14.

The Albion boss added: "He knows he has a better chance here of starting games than at Liverpool. Sometimes if you are only getting bit-parts in games it can be demoralising and your focus goes.

"I have already seen little flashes that have not just lifted me but everyone at the training ground because he can do things with the ball that are special. If we can see that on the pitch I think our fans are going to be very excited by him."